Spring damper

ABSTRACT

A damper is shown for damping the movements of a valve spring in an engine. The valve spring can be housed within the damper or the damper may be located inside of the valve spring. The damper is made from a suitable polymer and has one or more slots located radially to a central axis and one or more rings or bands. The slots can be parallel to the central axis or cut at an angle or curve in the wall of the damper. The rings or bands are located on the outer surface of the damper where the valve spring is located within the damper. The purpose of the slots cut into the polymer damper is to enable the polymer to deflect and conform to the shape of the spring under a radial force provided by a separate circular spring element such as a band, ring, garter spring and others. The rings or bands are located on the inner surface of the damper where the valve spring surrounds the damper. The cross section, number and location of the slots, rings or bands can be adjusted depending on the particular application of the damper and the amount of damping that is desired for the particular application.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of Provisional application forPatent Ser. No. 60/647,247 filed on Jan. 25, 2005.

FIELD

The present version of these embodiments relate generally to the fieldof dampers for springs and more particularly to the damping of valvesprings in engines. While valve springs are specifically discussed,these dampers could be used for other applications such as suspensionsprings, fuel injector springs, clutch springs and others.

BACKGROUND

These embodiments relate to the field of dampers for springs, and moreparticularly to the damping of valve springs in engines. In order forfour cycle internal combustion engines to run there needs to be a way ofallowing the fuel-air mixture into the combustion chamber. When thefuel-air mixture has been burned, then the exhausted fuel-air mixtureand combustion products must exit the combustion chamber. This has beendone in the background art by providing at least one valve that opensand closes to allow the fuel-air mixture into the combustion chamber andtraditionally at least one other valve to allow the spent fuel-airmixture and combustion products to leave the combustion chamber. Thevalves traditionally have springs which interact with the valve and areprovided typically with a rotating cam to depress and release the valve.

The valves are opened by having the cam pressing on the valve forcingthe valve towards the combustion chamber thus opening the valve andcompressing the valve spring. When the valve is released the valvespring moves or returns the valve to the closed position. When the valveis opened the spring compresses and upon release of the valve, thespring returns the valve to the closed position.

This type of system works relatively well for most applications, buttoday with the smaller higher revolution per minute (rpm) engines, theneed for decreased weight in vehicles, the need for higher efficiencyengines and other reasons, the current valve spring system is not asdesirable. As these smaller engines are operated at higher rpms forlonger periods of time, the valves springs do not have time tocompletely stop oscillating when the valve is fully engaged and when thevalve is fully released. This oscillation of the valve springs can leadto leakage when the valve is released and decreased flow when the valveis engaged to allow fuel and air into the cylinder. The valves can alsofloat or flutter, meaning that the valves are not operating asefficiently as would be desired.

One way to discourage the float or flutter is to get the valve andspecifically the valve spring to stop oscillating when opened andclosed. Once the valve is closed, in a perfect system, both the valveand spring would stop moving. Conversely, once the valve is opened, boththe valve and spring would stop moving. This does not occur in the realworld and the valve spring continues to move up and down, or oscillate,for a finite time period and then stops. It is desirable to have thespring stop moving as quickly as possible when compressed and also whenreleased.

Much of the background art also uses a separate valve stem seal todiscourage the lubricating oil from penetrating into the combustionchamber. It would be beneficial to have this valve stem sealincorporated into a polymer damper to decrease manufacturing costs andalso to ease assembly.

The damping of oscillations has traditionally been done by engineeringthe spring or spring materials to decrease this spring oscillation.Current engineering has reached the limit for damping these oscillationswith spring engineering and spring materials. Some background art showsthe use of dampers attached to the spring to lessen these oscillations.Much of the art that is known uses a steel damper. A steel damper onlyprovides a point contact between the spring and the damper because ofthe relative inelasticity of the steel. The applicant uses a polymer forthe damper which is then held against the surface of the spring byradial force provided by a band or ring acting as a spring element. Apolymer damper can conform to the shape of the spring coils allowingmore surface area contact against the damper and hence more efficientdamping.

A damper can be any material that will stop a spring from oscillating.Various embodiments have been developed to stop the spring fromoscillating such as a dual spring system, installing a damper on theoutside of the spring, installing a damper on the inside of the spring.Many of the current systems have significant disadvantages to them thatdo not allow the optimum damping of the valve springs. These systems canbe costly and difficult to install and maintain and some requirere-engineering the cam shafts and cylinder heads where the valves andvalve springs are located.

For the foregoing reasons, there is a need for a spring damper that willdiscourage the spring from oscillating when the spring is compressed andreleased.

SUMMARY

In view of the foregoing disadvantages inherent in the level of the artin valve springs there is a need for a spring damper.

A first object of the these embodiments is to provide a damper that isrelatively cost effective to manufacture and install.

Another object of these embodiments is to provide a damper that willprovide damping along a radial surface of a spring coil as opposed to apoint contact of a spring coil.

Another object of these embodiments is to provide a damper that willdampen the valve spring oscillations more effectively and efficientlythan those currently available.

It is yet another object of these embodiments to provide a damper thatwill have a long life cycle and maintain damping performance over alonger time period without wearing or damage to the spring.

Another object of these embodiments is to provide a damper that willcause less wear to the spring surface with less metal filings fromspring wear which can then contaminate the lubrication system of theengine.

Another object of these embodiments is to provide a spring damper thatincorporates a valve stem seal to simplify assembly and reduce costs.

It is a still further object of these embodiments is to provide a damperthat can be installed without redesigning the valve spring, cylinderhead or engine.

These together with other objects of these embodiments, along withvarious features of novelty which characterize these embodiments, arepointed out with particularity in the detailed description and forming apart of this disclosure. For a better understanding of theseembodiments, their operating advantages and the specific objectsattained by its uses, reference should be had to the accompanyingdrawings and descriptive matter in which there is illustrated apreferred embodiment.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of one embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 2 shows a top view of the embodiment in FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 shows a cross sectional view along A-A in FIG. 2 of oneembodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 4 shows a perspective view of another embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 5 shows a top view of embodiment in FIG. 4.

FIG. 6 shows a cross sectional view along A-A of FIG. 5 of oneembodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 7 shows a perspective view of another embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 8 shows a top view of the embodiment in FIG. 7.

FIG. 9 shows a cross sectional view along A-A of FIG. 8 of oneembodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 10 shows a perspective view of another embodiment of thedisclosure.

FIG. 11 shows a top view of the embodiment in FIG. 10.

FIG. 12 shows a cross sectional view along AA-AA of FIG. 11 of oneembodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 13 shows test data for one embodiment of this disclosure ascompared to background art made from steel.

FIG. 14 shows a one embodiment installed on a test fixture.

FIG. 15 shows a perspective view of one embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 16 shows a top view of the embodiment in FIG. 15.

FIG. 17 shows a cross sectional view along AA-AA of FIG. 16 of oneembodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 18 shows a perspective view of one embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 19 shows a top view of the embodiment of FIG. 18.

FIG. 20 shows a cross sectional view along AA-AA of FIG. 19 of oneembodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 21 shows a perspective view of one embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 22 shows a top view of the embodiment of FIG. 21.

FIG. 23 shows a cross sectional view along AA-AA of FIG. 22 of oneembodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 24 shows a perspective view of one embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 25 shows a top view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 24.

FIG. 26 shows a cross sectional view along AA-AA in FIG. 25 of oneembodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 27 shows a perspective view of one embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 28 shows a top view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 27.

FIG. 29 shows a cross sectional view along AA-AA in FIG. 28 of oneembodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 30 shows an exaggerated view of the interface of the band, damperand spring of FIGS. 7,8,9.

FIG. 31 shows a cross sectional view along B-B of FIG. 32 of theembodiments without spring S shown in FIGS. 10, 11, 12.

FIG. 32 shows a top view of the embodiments of FIGS. 10, 11, 12 withoutthe spring S.

FIG. 33 shows a perspective view of the embodiments of FIGS. 10, 11, 12without the spring S.

FIG. 34 shows a cross sectional view of another embodiment of a damperalong AA-AA of FIG. 35.

FIG. 35 shows a top view of the embodiment of FIG. 36.

FIG. 36 shows a perspective view of the embodiments shown in FIGS. 34 &35.

FIG. 37 shows a perspective view of one embodiment of a band having afinger and lands on one side and oblong hole and cutouts on an oppositeside.

FIG. 38 shows a perspective view of one embodiment of a band having avertical cut.

FIG. 39 shows a perspective view of one embodiment of the a band havingan oblong hole, cut outs and a vertical cut.

FIG. 40 shows a perspective view of one embodiment of a band having anoblong hole, cut outs and s shaped cut or s-cut.

FIG. 41 shows a perspective view of one embodiment of a band having anoblong hole, cut outs and v shaped cut or v-cut.

FIG. 42 shows a perspective view of one embodiment of a band having anoblong hole, cut outs and an angled cut or z-cut.

FIG. 43 shows a perspective view of one embodiment of a band having anoblong hole, cut outs, finger and lands and radial rib.

FIG. 44 shows a perspective view of one embodiment of a band having anoblong hole, cut outs, finger and lands and two radial ribs.

FIG. 45 shows a perspective view of one embodiment of a band having anoblong hole, cut outs, finger and lands and vertical recesses.

FIG. 46 shows a perspective view of one embodiment of a band having anoblong hole, cut outs, finger and lands and circular recesses.

FIG. 47 shows a perspective view of one embodiment of a band having anoblong hole, cut outs, finger and lands and two rows of circularrecesses.

FIG. 48 shows a perspective view of one embodiment of the a band havingan oblong hole, cut outs, finger and lands and three rows of circularrecesses

FIG. 49 shows a perspective view of one embodiment of a band having anoblong hole, cut outs, finger and lands and one row of punch holes withthru holes.

FIG. 50 shows a perspective view of one embodiment of a band having anoblong hole, cut outs, finger and lands and one row of punch slots withthru slots.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Referring to the drawings in detail wherein like elements are indicatedby like numerals, there is shown in FIG. 1 one embodiment of the springdamper 20. The spring damper 20 is generally cylindrically shaped havingan open top 28 and a bottom 22 with a hole 34 and is made from a polymeror more specifically a polyamide. The damper 20 also has at least oneslot 26 which begins at a slot end 36 near the bottom 22 and runs to thetop 28. The embodiment of the damper 20 shown in FIGS. 1, 2 and 3 showsfour slots 26 evenly spaced radially and located parallel to a centralaxis 40. While this embodiment shows four slots 26, it should beunderstood that more or fewer slots 26 could be used depending on thespecific application for the damper 20. It should also be noted that theslots 26 could be angled such as those shown in FIGS. 34, 35, 36.

This embodiment of the damper 20 also shows two grooves 30 around theouter surface 42. The grooves 30 are located a predetermined distancefrom the bottom 22 and along a common radius from the axis 40. Locatedin each groove 30 is a ring 24. Each ring 24 has a circular crosssection and is housed partially within the groove 30 which has amatching semi circular cross section, best seen in FIG. 3. The ring 24is made from a spring steel.

It is anticipated that the wall thickness of the damper 20 could beincreased such that the groove 30 would be deeper and that each ring 24would be contained within the groove 30 such that the outer surface 42would have an approximately smooth profile. The ring 24 could also bemolded into the polymer and contained between the outer surface 42 andthe inner surface 46 thereby reducing manufacturing costs.

While this embodiment shows two grooves 30 and two corresponding rings24, it is anticipated that more or fewer grooves 30 and rings 24 couldbe provided for depending on the specific application of the damper 20.

Another embodiment could use what are commonly called “garter springs”,not shown, which are small coiled springs having a major diameterapproximately equivalent to the outer diameter of the rings 24. Gartersprings are commonly used in seals and would provide an equivalentradial force to bias the damper 20 against the spring S. These gartersprings could be used to replace any of the rings shown such as rings 24or the rings shown in later embodiments and likewise could be moldedinto the polymer and contained between the outer surface 42 and innersurface 46 of this embodiment and the others disclosed.

While this embodiment shows ring opening 44 in ring 24, FIG. 2, wherethe openings 44 are located one over another, it is anticipated thatthese openings 44 could be offset a predetermined angle from one anotheraround axis 40.

Also shown in FIG. 1 is a taper 32 near the top 28 of the damper 20 anda circular hole 34 located in the bottom 22. The hole 34 has a diameterless than the diameter of the outer surface 42 of the damper 20 toprovide a spring seat 38 in the bottom 22. To minimize wear to thespring seat 38 under specific extreme loading, a hardened steel seat(not shown) may be inserted or molded into the damper to mate againstthe spring end 48, best shown FIG. 17. The damper 20 fits partially overthe spring S, FIGS. 15, 16, 17.

Although for example, FIG. 17 shows a gap between the outer diameter ofthe spring S and the inner diameter of the damper 20 this is exaggeratedfor drawing clarity. In functioning embodiments, the inner surface 46 ismaintained in contact with the outer diameter of the spring S throughthe compressive force of rings 24.

The rings 24 provide a radial force to bias the damper 20 such that theinner surface 46 makes contact with the outer surface of the valvespring S. When the valve (not shown) is depressed, the spring S islikewise depressed and the outer radial surface of the spring S isbiased away from the central axis 40 and deforms the inner surface 46 ofthe damper 20 to provide for a radial surface contact. The frictionbetween the radial surface of spring S and the depressed radial grooveof the inner surface 46 provides a damping effect to the spring S as canbe seen from the test data in FIG. 13.

FIG. 30, not to scale, shows an exaggerated schematic view of the ofthis interface of the spring S, damper 180 and band 184 of theembodiments shown in FIGS. 24,25,26.

By varying the type, location, number, diameter and cross section of therings 24 and grooves 30 and by varying the number and shape of slots 26,as well as the types and hardness of the polymers used, various levelsof radial force and therefore damping of spring S can be achieveddepending upon the design application for the damper 20. Damping of thevalve spring S can be increased or decreased over specific rpm levels tolessen valve spring oscillations, the flutter or float of the valve,decrease the noise attributed to the valve and valve springs S andchange the thermal loading of the valve spring.

Many of the elements: the rings or bands, grooves, slots, polymerproperties can be varied in all of the following embodiments dependingupon the specific application for the damper.

In addition, the radial force provided by the rings 24 can compensatefor wear or set in the damper 20 or for normal manufacturing tolerancesin the spring S and damper 20. Even if the spring S or damper 20 was towear, the rings 24 would continue to maintain a radial force upon thespring S. Likewise, the embodiments that utilize bands would have thesame beneficial effect.

There is shown in FIGS. 4, 5, 6, 18, 19 & 20 another embodiment of thespring damper 60. The spring damper 60 is generally cylindrically shapedhaving an open top 68 and a bottom 62 with a hole 74. The damper 60 alsohas at least one slot 66 which begins at a slot end 76 near the bottom62 and runs to the top 68. The embodiment of the damper 60 shown inFIGS. 4, 5, 6, 18, 19 & 20 shows four slots 66 evenly spaced around acentral axis 80. While this embodiment shows four slots 66, it should beunderstood that more or fewer slots 66 could be used depending on thespecific application for the damper 60. In addition, the slots 66 couldbe angled as shown in FIGS. 34, 35, 36.

This embodiment of the damper 60 also shows two grooves 70 around theouter surface 82. The grooves 70 are located a predetermined distancefrom the bottom 62 and along a common radius from the axis 80. Locatedin each groove 70 is a band 64. Each band 64 has a rectangular crosssection and is housed partially within the groove 70 which has amatching rectangular cross section, best seen in FIGS. 6, 20. It isanticipated that the wall thickness of the damper 60 could be increasedsuch that the groove 70 would be deeper and the each band 64 would becontained within the groove 70 such that the outer surface 82 would havean approximately smooth profile.

The band 64 could also be molded into the polymer and contained betweenthe outer surface 82 and the inner surface 86.

While this embodiment shows two grooves 70 and two corresponding bands64, it is anticipated that more or fewer grooves 70 and bands 64 couldbe provided for depending on the specific application of the damper 60.

While this embodiment shows ring opening 84 in band 64, FIGS. 5, 19where the openings 84 are located one over another, it is anticipatedthat these openings 84 could be offset a predetermined angle from oneanother around axis 80.

Also shown in FIG. 4 is a taper 72 near the top 68 of the damper 60 anda circular hole 74 located in the bottom 62. The hole 74 has a diameterless than the diameter of the outer surface 82 of the damper 60 toprovide a rest or spring land 78 in the bottom 62. The damper 60 fitspartially over the spring S, FIGS. 18, 19, 20.

The bands 64 bias the damper 60 such that the inner surface 86 makescontact with the outer surface of the valve spring S. When the valve(not shown) is depressed, the spring S is likewise depressed and theouter surface of the spring S is in radial contact with the innersurface 86 of the damper 60. The friction between the spring S and theinner surface 86 provides a damping effect to the spring S.

By varying the type, location, number, diameter and cross section of thebands 64 and grooves 70 and by varying the number of slots 66, the typeand hardness of the polymer used and various levels of radial force, thedamping of spring S can be achieved. Damping of the valve spring S canbe increased or decreased over specific rpm levels to lessen the flutteror float and decrease the noise attributed to the valve and valvesprings.

Another embodiment of the damper 100 is shown in FIG. 7, 8, 9, 21,22 &23. The damper fits partially over spring S, FIGS. 21, 22, 23. In thisembodiment, the damper 100 has a plurality of upper tabs 128 locatednear the top 108 of the damper 100. While this embodiment shows eightupper tabs 128 located near the top 108 and at a predetermined angularlocation it should be understood that more or fewer upper tabs 128 couldbe located on the outer surface 122 and the angular location could bevaried depending on the specific application for the damper 100. Theangular location of the upper tabs 128 and lower tabs 126 can be offsetto make the manufacturing of damper 100 easier.

Near the bottom 102 are located a plurality of lower tabs 126. Whilethis embodiment shows four lower tabs 126 located near the bottom 102and at a predetermined angular location it should be understood thatmore or fewer lower tabs 126 could be located on the outer surface 122and the angular location could be varied depending on the specificapplication for the damper 100.

The provision of lower tab 126 and upper tab 128 is in place of a fullyprofiled groove, such as groove 30 shown in FIGS. 1,2,3 which reducesmaterial costs and increases manufacturability of the damper.

The area between the upper tabs 128 and the lower tabs 126 forms agroove 110. The groove 110 houses and retains the band 130, FIGS.21,22,23. This embodiment of the damper 100 shows four slots 106 runningfrom a slot end 116 located near the bottom 102 to the top 108. Whilethis embodiment of the damper 100 shows four slots 106 it is to beunderstood that more or fewer slots 106 could be provided depending onthe specific application for the damper 100.

This embodiment of the damper 100 also shows a hub 104 extending fromthe spring land 118 towards the top 108 along the axis 120. This hub 104has a stem seal 124 for sealing the valve stem (not shown). The valvestem (not shown) would extend through the damper 100 hole 114 from thetop 108 through the bottom 102.

The stem seal 124 is known in the art and is many times used as an addon component to seal the stem of the valve from the combustion chamber,not shown. This stem seal 124 can be incorporated into the damper 100,FIG. 9, or could be a separate component that would fit into an openingprovided in the bottom 102 of the damper 100, not shown. A separate stemseal could be pre-assembled into the damper 100, not shown, therebyreducing the cost of components and complexity of the cylinder headassembly process. The stem seal 124 could be an interference fit into ahole similar to hole 114.

The embodiment of the damper 100 shown in FIGS. 7, 8, 9, 21, 22, 23shows a relatively wide groove 110 and it is anticipated that either onewide rectangular band 130 would be placed in groove 110 and retained bythe upper tab 128 and the lower tab 126. Alternatively, two smallerrectangular cross sectional bands (not shown) could be placed around thedamper 100 and retained by the upper tab(s) 128 and the lower tab(s) 126in the groove 110.

FIGS. 10, 11, 12, 31, 32 and 33 show an alternative embodiment of thedamper 140. This embodiment the damper 140 is installed interior tospring S. This embodiment of the damper 140 could be used inapplications where space is critical or the other related enginecomponents could not be modified to incorporate the other embodiments ofthe damper that resides on the exterior of the spring S.

The damper 140 has a hole 154 running from a bottom 142 to the top 148along axis 160. There is a spring land 158 near the bottom 142 whichextends exterior to the major diameter of spring S.

A plurality of slots 146 extend from a slot end 156 near the bottom 142to the top 148. While this embodiment of the damper 140 shows four slots146, it should be understood that more or fewer slots 146 could beincluded depending on the specific application for the damper 140. Thedamper 140 has an inner surface 152 and located therein is a groove 150which is located between the bottom 142 and the top 148 around axis 160.The groove 150 is approximately semi-circular in cross section and sizedto fit the ring 144 which has a corresponding circular profile. The ring144 is retained in the groove 150 and provides a radial force to biasthe outer surface 153 of the damper 140 against the inner diameter ofthe spring S.

As discussed previously, the spring S causes a deformation to the outersurface 153 and makes a radial contact with the outer surface 153. Thisradial contact, see FIG. 30, spreads the wear of both the damper 140 andspring S over a larger radial surface area and greatly enhances thedamping characteristics as compared to the background art using a steeldamper and point contact.

While this embodiment of the damper 140 shows one groove 150 andcorresponding ring 144, it should be understood that more or fewergrooves 150 and rings 144 could be used depending upon the specificapplication of the damper 140.

This embodiment of the damper 140 could also have slots 146 such asthose shown in FIGS. 34, 35, 36.

FIG. 13 shows a comparison graph of the response or oscillations ofspring S having a steel damper with point contact with the spring, ascompared to a plastic damper having radial contact with the full lengthof the wire of the spring.

FIG. 14 shows one embodiment of a damper 20 installed over a spring Sand installed in a head H.

FIGS. 15, 16, 17 show the same damper 20 as that shown in FIGS. 1, 2, 3with the addition of the spring S.

FIGS. 18, 19, 20 show the same damper 60 as shown in FIGS. 4, 5, 6 withthe addition of spring S.

FIGS. 21, 22, 23 show the same damper 100 as that shown in FIGS. 7, 8, 9with the addition of a band 130 and spring S.

FIGS. 24, 25, 26 show an alternative embodiment of the damper 180installed on spring S. The spring damper 180 is generally cylindricallyshaped having an open top 188 and a bottom 182 with a hole 192. Thedamper 180 also has at least one slot 186 which begins at a slot end 194near the bottom 182 and runs to the top 188. The embodiment of thedamper 180 shown in FIGS. 24, 25, 26 shows four slots 186 evenly spacedaround a central axis 196. While this embodiment shows four slots 186,it should be understood that more or fewer slots 186 could be useddepending on the specific application for the damper 180.

This embodiment of the damper 180 also shows one groove 190 around theouter surface 198. The groove 190 is located a predetermined distancefrom the bottom 182 and along a radius from the axis 196. Located ineach groove 190 is a band 184. The band 184 has a rectangular crosssection and is housed partially within the groove 190 and retained by anupper tab 204 and the groove 190 cut into the outer surface 198.

It is anticipated that the wall thickness of the damper 180 could beincreased such that the groove 190 would be deeper and the band 184would be contained within the groove 190 such that the outer surface 198would have an approximately smooth profile. Alternatively, the band 184could be molded into the polymer between the outer surface 198 and innersurface 200.

While this embodiment shows band opening 202 in band 184, FIG. 25 wherethe band opening 202 is located over the slot 186, it is anticipatedthat this opening 202 could be offset a predetermined angle around axis80 and would not necessarily need to be located over slot 186.

Also shown in FIG. 25 is a circular hole 192 located in the bottom 182.The hole 192 has a diameter less than the diameter of the outer surface198 of the damper 180 to provide a rest or spring land 206 in the bottom182. The damper 180 fits partially over the spring S.

The band 190 provides a radial force to bias the damper 180 such thatthe inner surface 200 makes radial contact with the outer surface of thevalve spring S. When the valve (not shown) is depressed, the spring S islikewise depressed and the outer surface of the spring is in radialcontact with the inner surface 200 of the damper 180. The frictionbetween the spring S and the inner surface 200 provides a damping effectto the spring S.

By varying the type, location, number, diameter and cross section of theband 184 and groove 190 and by varying the number and shape of slots194, as well as the type and hardness of the polymer used, variouslevels of radial force and therefore damping of spring S can be achieveddepending upon the design application for damper 180. Damping of thevalve spring S can be increased or decreased over specific rpm levels tolessen the flutter or float of the valve and decrease the noiseattributed to the valve and valve springs.

The spring damper 210 of FIGS. 27, 28, 29 is generally cylindricallyshaped having an open top 218 and a bottom 212 with a hole 222. Thedamper 210 also has at least one slot 216 which begins at a slot end 224near the bottom 212 and runs to the top 218. The embodiment of thedamper 210 shown in FIGS. 27,28,29 shows four slots 216 evenly spacedaround a central axis 226. While this embodiment shows four slots 216,it should be understood that more or fewer slots 216 could be useddepending on the specific application for the damper 210.

This embodiment of the damper 210 also shows a groove 220 around theouter surface 228. The groove 220 is located a predetermined distancefrom the bottom 212 and along a radius from the axis 226. Located in thegroove 220 is a band 214. Each band 214 has a rectangular cross sectionand is housed partially within the groove 220. It is anticipated thatthe wall thickness of the damper 210 could be increased such that thegroove 220 would be deeper and the band 214 could be contained withinthe groove 220 such that the outer surface 228 would have anapproximately smooth profile. Alternatively, the band 214 could bemolded into the polymer between the inner surface 230 and outer surface228.

While this embodiment shows one groove 220 and one corresponding band214, it is anticipated that more or fewer grooves 220 and bands 214could be provided for depending on the specific application of thedamper 210.

This embodiment shows ring opening 232 in band 214, FIG. 28, where theband opening 232 is located one over a slot 216, it is anticipated thatthis band opening 232 could be offset a predetermined angle anotheraround axis 226.

Also shown in FIG. 27 there are a plurality of upper tabs 234 near thetop 218. The upper tabs 234 are for retaining the band 214 on the damper210. Located near the bottom 212 are located a plurality of lower tabs236 for retaining the band 214 on the damper 210. The damper 210 fitspartially over the spring S, as seen in FIGS. 27, 28, 29.

The band 214 provides a radial force to bias the damper 210 such thatthe inner surface 230 is in radial contact with the outer surface of thevalve spring S. When the valve (not shown) is depressed, the spring S islikewise depressed and the outer surface of the spring makes radialcontact with the inner surface 230 of the damper 210. The frictionbetween the spring S and the inner surface 230 provides a damping effectto the spring S.

By varying the type, location, number, diameter and cross section of theband 214 and grooves 220 and by varying the number and type of slots216, as well as the type and hardness of the polymer used, variouslevels of radial force and therefore damping of spring S can be achieveddepending upon the design application for the damper 20. Damping of thevalve spring S can be increased or decreased over specific rpm levels tolessen the valve spring oscillations, the flutter or float of the valveand decrease the noise attributed to the valve and valve springs.

FIG. 34 shows a cross sectional view of another embodiment of the damper250. Damper 250 is generally cylindrically shaped having an open top 256and a bottom 252 with a hole 260 and is made from a polymer. The damper250 also has at least one slot 254 which begins at a slot end 262 nearthe bottom 252 and runs to the top 256. This embodiment of the damper250 shown in FIGS. 34, 35 and 36 shows eight slots 254 evenly spacedradially and located at an angle relative to axis 267. While thisembodiment shows eight slots 254, it should be understood that more orfewer slots 254 could be used depending on the specific application forthe damper 250.

This embodiment of the damper 250 also shows one groove 258 around theouter surface 269. The groove 258 is located a predetermined distancefrom the bottom 252 and along a common radius from the axis 267. Locatedin groove 258 would be a band, not shown, similar to the band shown inFIGS. 28, 29, 30.

It is anticipated that the wall thickness of the damper 250 could beincreased such that the groove 258 would be deeper and the band would becontained within the groove 258 such that the outer surface 269 wouldhave an approximately smooth profile. The band could also be molded intothe polymer and contained between the outer surface 269 and the innersurface 271.

While this embodiment discusses one band and one groove 258, it isanticipated that more or fewer grooves 258 and bands could be providedfor depending on the specific application of the damper 250.

Also shown in FIG. 34 is a circular hole 260 located in the bottom 252.The hole 260 has a diameter less than the diameter of the outer surface269 of the damper 250 to provide a rest or spring land 264 in the bottom252. The damper 260 fits partially over the spring S, not shown.

FIGS. 37-50 show various embodiments of band 290. Band 290 can havevarious shaped openings and elements in the wall to provide alternativedamping characteristics.

FIG. 37 shows one embodiment of a band 290. It is beneficial to have anopening in the band 290 to aid the installation of the band 290 on adamper. In this embodiment there is a finger 292 and lands 293 formingthe opening. This arrangement tends to reduce the loading of the damperin the location of the opening in the band 290. In other words, theloading at the position of the opening in the band 290 is reduced inthis area of the damper by providing various types of openings, in thisembodiment the finger 292 and lands 293.

Likewise, this embodiment of the band 290 discloses a hole 294 and pairof cutouts 295, one cutout 295 above the hole 294 and a second cutout295 below hole 294. This tends to stiffen the band 290 to discourage theband 290 from opening and closing at the finger 292 and lands 293 as thespring cycles.

FIG. 38 shows another embodiment of the band 290 having an openingvertical cut 297.

FIG. 39 shows another embodiment of the band 290 having an openingvertical cut 297 and a hole 294 with one cutout 295 above hole 294 andone cutout 295 below hole 294 opposite from the vertical cut 297.

FIG. 40 shows another embodiment of the band 290 having an opening s-cut299 and a hole 294 with one cutout 295 above hole 294 and one cutout 295below hole 294 opposite from the s-cut 299.

FIG. 41. shows another embodiment of the band 290 having an openingv-cut 301 and a hole 294 with one cutout 295 above hole 294 and onecutout 295 below hole 294 opposite from the v-cut 301.

FIG. 42 shows another embodiment of the band 290 having an opening z-cut303 and a hole 294 with one cutout 295 above hole 294 and one cutout 295below hole 294 opposite from the z-cut 303.

FIGS. 43-50 show various embodiments of the band 290. While thesefigures show generically an opening with finger 292 and lands 293 it isto be understood that these enhancements shown in FIGS. 43-50 could beapplied to bands 290 having opening vertical cut 297, s-cut 299, v-cut301 and z-cut 303 and either with or without hole 294 and cutouts 295.

FIG. 43 shows a band 290 having finger 292 and lands 293 with hole 294and cutouts 295 with a single radial rib 305, where the rib 305 isconvex on the inside diameter of band 290 and concave on the outsidediameter of band 290.

FIG. 44 shows a band 290 having finger 292 and lands 293 with hole 294and cutouts 295 with a two radial ribs 305, where the ribs 305 areconvex on the inside diameter of band 290 and concave on the outsidediameter of band 290.

FIG. 45 shows a band 290 having finger 292 and lands 293 with hole 294and cutouts 295 with a plurality of vertical recesses 307. The verticalrecesses 307 are evenly spaced around the circumference of the band 290.The vertical recesses 307 are convex on the inside diameter and concaveon the outside diameter of the band 290.

While FIG. 45 shows a specific number of vertical recesses 307 evenlyspaced, it should be understood that more or fewer recesses 307 could beincorporated into the band 290 and the spacing would not necessarilyneed to be even nor the same distance between the top and bottom of theband 290. The spacing and number of the recesses 307 would depend on theparticular application of the damper on which the band 290 is used.

FIG. 46 shows a band 290 having finger 292 and lands 293 with hole 294and cutouts 295 with a single row of circular recesses 309 around thecircumference of the band 290. The circular recesses 309 are evenlyspaced around the circumference of the band 290. The circular recesses309 are convex on the inside diameter and concave on the outsidediameter of the band 290.

FIG. 47 shows a band 290 having finger 292 and lands 293 with hole 294and cutouts 295 with two rows of circular recesses 309 around thecircumference of the band 290. The circular recesses 309 are in rows andevenly spaced around the circumference of the band 290. The circularrecesses 309 are convex on the inside diameter and concave on theoutside diameter of the band 290.

While FIGS. 46, 47 show a specific number of circular recesses 309evenly spaced, it should be understood that more or fewer recesses 309could be incorporated into the band 290 and the spacing would notnecessarily need to be even nor the same distance between the top andbottom of the band 290. The spacing and number of the recesses 309 woulddepend on the particular application of the damper on which the band 290is used.

FIG. 48 shows a band 290 having finger 292 and lands 293 with hole 294and cutouts 295 with three rows of circular recesses 309 around thecircumference of the band 290. The circular recesses 309 are in rows andevenly spaced around the circumference of the band 290. The circularrecesses 309 are convex on the inside diameter and concave on theoutside diameter of the band 290.

Even though the circular recesses 309 are shown evenly spaced around thecircumference of band 290 and along a common circumferential locationbetween the top and bottom of the band 290 it is understood that thecircular recesses 309 could be located along a non-commoncircumferential location between the top and bottom of band 290 also.

FIG. 49 shows a band 290 having finger 292 and lands 293 with hole 294and cutouts 295 with one row of punch holes 311 around the circumferenceof the band 290. The punch holes 311 are in a row and evenly spacedaround the circumference of the band 290. The punch holes 311 have athru hole 312 in the center and are convex on the inside diameter andconcave on the outside diameter of the band 290.

While FIG. 49 shows a specific number of punch holes 311 with thru holes312 evenly spaced, it should be understood that more or punch holes 311with thru holes 312 could be incorporated into the band 290 and thespacing would not necessarily need to be even nor the same distancebetween the top and bottom of the band 290. The spacing and number ofthe punch holes 311 with thru holes 312 would depend on the particularapplication of the damper on which the band 290 is used.

FIG. 50 shows a band 290 having finger 292 and lands 293 with hole 294and cutouts 295 with one row of vertical punch slots 313 around thecircumference of the band 290. The vertical punch slots 313 are in a rowand evenly spaced around the circumference of the band 290. The verticalpunch slots 313 have a thru slot 314 in the center and are convex on theinside diameter and concave on the outside diameter of the band 290.

While FIG. 50 shows a specific number of punch slots 313 with thru slots314 evenly spaced, it should be understood that more or fewer punchslots 313 with thru slots 314 could be incorporated into the band 290and the spacing would not necessarily need to be even nor the samedistance between the top and bottom of the band 290. The spacing andnumber of the punch slots 313 with thru slots 314 would depend on theparticular application of the damper on which the band 290 is used.

By varying the type, location, number, diameter and cross section of thebands 290 and grooves 258 and by varying the number and types of anglesof slots 254, as well as the type and hardness of the polymer used,various levels of radial force and therefore damping of spring S can beachieved depending upon the design application for the damper 250.Damping of the valve spring S can be increased or decreased overspecific rpm levels to lessen valve spring oscillations, the flutter orfloat of the valve and decrease the noise attributed to the valve andvalve springs S.

It will now be apparent to those skilled in the art that otherembodiments, improvements, details and uses can be made consistent withthe letter and spirit of the foregoing disclosure and within the scopeof this application.

1. A device for damping oscillations in a spring, the device comprising:a damper having a top and a bottom and an inner surface and an outersurface; a hole in the bottom, the hole located on an axis; a pluralityof slots extending from a slot end located near the bottom, the slotsextending to the top; a spring seat extending from the inner surfacetoward the axis terminating at the hole; at least one ring located in acorresponding groove in the outer surface; and the ring providing radialtension to the outer surface of the damper such that the inner surfaceof the damper contacts the spring and the spring oscillations aredamped.
 2. The device of claim 1, wherein: the number of slots are four.3. The device of claim 1, wherein: the slots are parallel to the axis.4. The device of claim 1, wherein: the slots are not parallel to theaxis.
 5. The device of claim 1, wherein: the number of rings andcorresponding grooves are two.
 6. A device for damping oscillations in aspring, the device comprising: a damper having a bottom and a top; atleast one slot extending from a slot end near the bottom and extendingto the top; a hole in the bottom located on an axis; an outer surfaceand an inner surface; a spring land extending from the outer surfacenear the bottom perpendicular to the axis; and at least one groove inthe inner surface for receiving a corresponding ring, the ring biasingthe outer surface of the damper against the spring such that the springoscillations are damped.
 7. The device of claim 6, further comprising:the number of slots are four.
 8. The device of claim 6, wherein: theslots are parallel to the axis.
 9. The device of claim 6, wherein: theslots are not parallel to the axis.
 10. The device of claim 6, furthercomprising: the number of grooves and corresponding rings are two.
 11. Adevice for damping oscillations in a spring and providing a seal for avalve stem, the device comprising: a damper having a top and a bottomand an inner surface and an outer surface; at least one slot extendingfrom a slot end near the bottom and extending to the top; a hole locatedin the bottom centered on an axis and a stem seal centered on the axis,the stem seal extending from near the bottom and extending toward thetop; a spring land located near the bottom between the inner surface andthe stem seal, the spring land perpendicular to the axis; the stem sealfor sealing the damper and the valve stem; a plurality of upper tabslocated near the top on the outer surface; a plurality of lower tabslocated near the bottom on the outer surface such that a groove isformed between the upper tabs and the lower tabs in the outer surface;the groove for receiving a band, the band having an opening; and theband biasing the inner surface of the damper against the spring todampen spring oscillations.
 12. The device of claim 11, furthercomprising: the upper tabs and lower tabs are offset radially from oneanother around the axis.
 13. The device of claim 11, wherein: the numberof upper tabs are eight and the number of lower tabs are four.
 14. Thedevice of claims 11, wherein: the number of lower tabs are eight and thenumber of upper tabs are four.
 15. The device of claim 11, wherein: thenumber of slots are four.
 16. The device of claim 11, wherein: the slotsare parallel to the axis.
 17. The device of claim 11, wherein: the slotsare not parallel to the axis.
 18. The band of claim 11, furthercomprising: a hole located in the band opposite the opening, a cutoutlocated above and below the hole.
 19. The band of claim 11 wherein: theopening in the band is a vertical cut.
 20. The band of claim 11 wherein:the opening in the band is a finger and two lands.
 21. The band of claim11 wherein: the opening in the band is an s-cut.
 22. The band of claim11 wherein: the opening in the band is a v-cut.
 23. The band of claim 11wherein: the opening in the band is a z-cut.
 24. The band of claim 11further comprising: the band has at least one radial rib.
 25. The bandof claim 11 further comprising: the band has at least one verticalrecess.
 26. The band of claim 11 further comprising: the band has atleast one circular recess.
 27. The band of claim 11 further comprising:the band has at least one punch hole and thru hole.
 28. The band ofclaim 11 further comprising: the band has at least one punch slot andthru slot.
 29. A device for damping oscillations in a spring, the devicecomprising: a damper having a top and a bottom and an inner surface andan outer surface with a groove; a hole in the bottom, the hole locatedon an axis; a plurality of slots extending from a slot end located nearthe bottom, the slots extending to the top; a spring seat extending fromthe inner surface toward the axis terminating at the hole; at least oneband having an opening, the band located in the groove in the outersurface of the damper; and the band providing radial tension to theouter surface of the damper such that the inner surface of the dampercontacts the spring and the spring oscillations are damped.
 30. Thedevice of claim 29, wherein: the number of slots are four.
 31. Thedevice of claim 29, wherein: the slots are parallel to the axis.
 32. Thedevice of claim 29, wherein: the slots are not parallel to the axis. 33.The band of claim 29, further comprising: a hole located in the bandopposite the opening, a cutout located above and below the hole.
 34. Theband of claim 29 wherein: the opening in the band is a vertical cut. 35.The band of claim 29 wherein: the opening in the band is a finger andtwo lands.
 36. The band of claim 29 wherein: the opening in the band isan s-cut.
 37. The band of claim 29 wherein: the opening in the band is av-cut.
 38. The band of claim 29 wherein: the opening in the band is az-cut.
 39. The band of claim 29 further comprising: the band has atleast one radial rib.
 40. The band of claim 29 further comprising: theband has at least one vertical recess.
 41. The band of claim 29 furthercomprising: the band has at least one circular recess.
 42. The band ofclaim 29 further comprising: the band has at least one punch hole andthru hole.
 43. The band of claim 29 further comprising: the band has atleast one punch slot and thru slot.